Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping have praised their countries’ “partnership” on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (CSO), a regional security bloc founded by the duo as a counterbalance to Western influence.

Putin stated that the SCO is “strengthening its role as one of the key pillars of a fair multipolar world order”, emphasizing that the cooperation is not directed against any specific entity but serves the interests of their peoples.

Xi acknowledged the challenging global landscape and stressed the need for Russia and China to uphold their long-standing friendship for future generations.

The two leaders discussed their strategic cooperation, with Xi referring to Putin as an “old friend” and expressing optimism for the future of their bilateral relations.

They have met approximately 40 times, solidifying a “no limits” strategic partnership shortly before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Both nations have faced scrutiny from the West due to their regional policies, with previous meetings emphasizing their commitment to deepening ties and critiquing international bodies like the United Nations and NATO.

Shared optics

At the summit, Putin engaged with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who attended as an observer along with Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Erdogan offered to mediate peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, although Putin's spokesperson later dismissed this possibility.

Belarus, a key ally of Russia, was set to join the SCO, highlighting the group's alternative to existing international platforms.

While member interests have varied, particularly in Central Asia, where Russia and China compete for influence, the SCO continues to demonstrate the unity of non-Western nations.